pipe freezing machine??

[apcdave]

not long enough should be around 15 mins open the tap then leave it 5 more mins just to be safe

thanks Shaun..we live and learn

 

[Bogart]

One question about this item before I buy one well it is two questions in fact.
We lag pipes so they do not freeze in winter. Occasionally if they do, on thawing they may leak due to the ice inside having burst the pipe. How is it that one can freeze the water in a pipe using a unit such as this without running the risk of bursting it? Secondly as I am buying it to be able to replace radaitors over time without having to drain down each time. I can see the unit being used to freeze the supply and return lines and producing an ice plug in each. I now am trying to envisage using end feed fittings with the inherent heat from the blowlamp near the ice plug, will it not melt it rather quickly?

 

[ShaunCorbs]

Your only making a plug the water will expand back to the system

yes you will be fine you need to be at least a foot away from the plug tho and keep the machine running

 

[Bogart]

Your only making a plug the water will expand back to the system

yes you will be fine you need to be at least a foot away from the plug tho and keep the machine running

Thanks for the prompt reply I suddenly thought that here I am trying to freeze a pipe then not far away heating it up.
Will order it now.

 

[Timmy D]

thanks Shaun..we live and learn

Can’t remember exact figures but the table shows that the time you must wait starts once the clamps reach -18c. In case you were unaware.

 

[steadyon]

Some things you might like to consider (Rofrost):
1. The Rothenberger instructions suggest waiting until temperature shows -30. Takes 15 to 20 minutes on 15 mm pipe.
2. I personally wouldn't solder closer than 450 mm (18") to a freeze plug.
3. If using on plastic pipe, tie the freezer head on with a bit of string as well. Plastic can deform as you tighten the head, leaving it a bit loose.
4. If freezing close to a compression fitting, get all the water between freezer head and fitting out as soon as the plug forms. Otherwise the residual water freezes and makes it difficult to get the fitting back together before defrosting.
5. Wear gloves. I have, only once, got mild frostbite from struggling to get a frozen pipe back in place with the freezer head still attached.